UFC 307: Stephen Thompson vs. Joaquin Buckley: Live round-by-round updates

A welterweight bout between Stephen Thompson and Joaquin Buckley will headline the prelims card of UFC 307 later this evening (Oct. 5) at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Thompson (17-7-1) is one of the greatest strikers to have ever graced the sport. With wins over the likes of Vicente Luque, Kevin Holland, and Jorge Masvidal, the former two-time welterweight challenger has become a true fan favorite.

'Wonderboy' has however struggled in recent years, and is 2-3 in his last five. That said, most of his losses have come against seasoned grapplers. Given that Buckley is a striker through and through, this might be a perfect opportunity for the promotional veteran to rebound and showcase his skills.

Buckley (19-6) meanwhile is on a tear. He is currently on a four-fight win streak with two of those wins coming via knockout. Currently ranked No.11 in the division, a win against 'Wonderboy' would help 'New Mansa' break into the top 10.

The bookmakers have positioned Buckley as a -205 favorite to defeat Thompson, who is listed as a +170 underdog for the matchup.

The prelims card of the event is now underway. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the event.

Check out the full UFC 307 fight card below:

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UFC 307: Stephen Thompson vs. Joaquin Buckley

Round 1

Buckley goes on the front foot right away and takes down 'Wonderboy'. Thompson however makes his way back to his feet immediately. As the pair clinch up against the cage, Buckley lands a few knees on his opponent.

The former title challenger explodes with a flurry and follows it up with a high kick that almost lands. 'Wonderboy' lands a kick up the middle and Buckley counters with a right hand.

Thompson lands a right hand on the break. A cut appears on the right eye of Buckley. As 'New Mansa' tries a level change, his opponent counters with an elbow.

Buckley eventually takes his opponent down, but 'Wonderboy' quickly gets back to his feet. As Buckley attempts a level change, Thompson hits him with a back kick. 'New Mansa' chases his opponent around the cage, trying to get a takedown, but Thompson expertly defends it.

Our score: 10-9 Thompson

Round 2

As the second round unfolds, Buckley is still on the front foot. He connects with a right hook. As 'New Mansa' attempts a level change, Thompson punishes him with elbows.

One more takedown by 'New Mansa' amounts to nothing as his opponent easily makes his way back to the feet. 'Wonderboy' connects with a few body shots on the break and Buckley connects with a right hand.

Thompson is now on the front foot. Buckley seems to be trying to lure his opponent into a counter. 'New Masnsa' explodes with a flurry to the head and takes his opponent to the ground. But 'Wonderboy' gets back to his feet.

The referee momentarily stops the fight owing to an accidental groin strike. As the fight restarts, Buckley tries a fancy handstand kick. Thompson catches his opponent coming in with a step-back sidekick to the midsection.

Our score: 10-9 Buckley

Round 3

Buckley is pushing the pressure. He is starting to land on Thompson. An inside leg kick followed by a body kick lands for 'Wonderboy'.

A high kick to the head lands for Thompson. Wow!!! Out of nowhere 'New Mansa' explodes and connects with a powerful right hand, shutting his opponent's lights out.

Official Result: Joaquin Buckley def. Stephen Thompson via KO (2:17 of Round 3).

Watch the finish below: